Maths EE criteria · 6 marks

Criterion C: Analysis and line of argument in a maths EE

Provisional The criteria, marks and reflection details on this page are from the new IB Extended essay guide (first assessment May 2027) as we understand it, and are being checked against the published guide. Treat them as provisional until this note goes.

This criterion looks at what you do with the mathematics: derivations, proofs, calculations and examples analysed step by step, linked into one line of argument that moves towards an answer to the research question.

What examiners look for in a maths EE

  • Mathematics that is developed, not just stated: derivations, proofs, calculations and well-chosen examples.
  • Each step justified, with the reasoning visible to the reader.
  • One line of argument: every section moves towards the answer to the research question.
  • Results checked: special cases, numerical checks, or a second method.

Common pitfalls

  • A list of facts or methods with no argument connecting them.
  • Calculations without explanation of what they show.
  • Large amounts of software output with no analysis.
  • Drifting away from the research question into related but irrelevant mathematics.

How to reach the top band

  1. Before each section, write one sentence: what does this section show, and how does it get me closer to the answer?
  2. End each section with a short statement of what has been established.
  3. Check key results two ways (for example, a proof and a numerical check).
  4. Cut anything that does not serve the argument, however interesting.

Check your own draft

  • My essay develops mathematics (derivations, proofs, analysed examples), it does not just describe it.
  • Every step is justified, and a reader can follow the reasoning.
  • Each section moves my argument towards answering the research question.
  • I have checked my key results, for example with special cases or a second method.

Answer these for every criterion in the free EE self-check.

What is expected of a maths essay

  • The essay should be about mathematics: the mathematics is the subject of the essay, not a tool used in passing for another subject.
  • The mathematics may go beyond the DP syllabus, but you must show you understand everything you use; quoting results you cannot explain does not earn credit.
  • Arguments are expected to be precise: terms defined, notation consistent, and results proved or justified (or properly referenced) where a mathematician would expect it.
  • Applications and modelling are allowed, but the focus stays on the mathematics: why the method works and how good the model is, not only the context.
  • A history-of-mathematics essay has to engage with the mathematics itself (for example by working through the original method), not only with biography.
  • Technology (graphing software, spreadsheets, code) is welcome; say what it did and make sure the mathematics behind it is explained.

Our summary of the subject guidance for mathematics (being checked against the guide).

Frequently asked questions

How much original mathematics does a maths EE need?

It does not need new mathematics in the research sense. It needs your own analysis: working through the mathematics, applying it to cases you chose, checking it and connecting it into an argument that answers your question.

Can I use software or code in the analysis?

Yes. Say what the software did, explain the mathematics behind it, and analyse its output yourself. The analysis is yours; the software is a tool, and it should be acknowledged.

IB Math Revision is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by the IB. Criterion descriptions are our own summaries; for the official wording see the IB's Extended essay guide (your EE coordinator has it).